Brighton College Abu Dhabi and Brighton College Al Ain are delighted to announce their newly appointed Head Mistress and Head Masterrespectively, for the new academic year.
Simon Corns, who has led Brighton College Abu Dhabi for almost five years, under which time the school has achieved Outstanding status from ADEK and year on year excellent GCSE and A-Level results, will be moving to Brighton College Al Ain as the new Head Master following Dr Ken Grieg’s retirement.
Simon Corns, Head Master, Brighton College Al Ain, said: “I am privileged indeed to be moving from one outstanding Brighton College to another and I am very much looking forward to getting to know pupils, staff and parents.”
Helen Wilkinson will be joining Brighton College Abu Dhabi as the new Head Mistress. Originating from Le Régent International School, Crans Montana, in Switzerland; an independent international boarding and day school affiliated with the prestigious Institut Le Rosey. At the school, she had two key roles: Head of Secondary School and Head of Academics. In both roles, she successfully supported the growth and development of the school and her pupils and colleagues alike. Her extensive educational experience had a significant impact on the school and her sense of purpose and direction demonstrated her ability to listen, reflect and implement a clear, compelling strategic direction and common purpose.
On appointment, Helen Wilkinson, Head Mistress, Brighton College Abu Dhabi said: “I am delighted to be taking over the role as Head Mistress of Brighton College Abu Dhabi. I knew that this was the right school for me as it places kindness at the heart of its philosophy. Kindness enables confidence to flourish, and confidence enables curiosity. I want our pupils to continue to thrive in this fantastic community and, having met the staff, I know that they have all the support they need.
She added: “Since arriving in this beautiful country, I have been warmly welcomed by everyone I have met. This is a wonderful place to live and our pupils have so much to feel proud of. I cannot wait to see them enjoying their Co-Curricular activities again, and to encourage and support them and the staff in everything they do. The 10th anniversary celebrations have already generated a wealth of exciting ideas – we have so much to look forward to together!”
Having graduated with a BA Honours degree in English and Philosophy, Helen Wilkinson’s talent was identified early in her career where she was promoted to department leadership positions. A move into senior management followed and she chaired the Academic Committee and became Head of Appraisal at Monkton Combe School in Bath – whilst simultaneously achieving a Masters’ Degree in Education (Leadership and Management) from Bath University, UK.
Mrs Nilay Ozral, Chief Executive Officer, Bloom Education & Board Member of Brighton College Abu Dhabi said: “We are delighted that Simon Corns will be taking the helm at Brighton College Al Ain and continuing his tenure with the school group. In addition, we are thrilled to welcome Helen Wilkinson to Brighton College Abu Dhabi as Head Mistress. With an in-depth knowledge of the British Curriculum coupled with a genuine love of international education, we are confident that Helen Wilkinson, together with our school’s outstanding College Leadership Team and teaching staff, will continue to deliver an “Outstanding” education, not only within the Emirate, but internationally, too.”
